Pulmicort Flexhaler (Budesonide)
Medication information written by Dr. Larisa Roybal, PharmD
Updated - February 17, 2021
Pulmicort Flexhaler (Budesonide) Medication Information
Uses
Pulmicort Flexhaler is a inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) that is used to treat asthma.
Dosage
The Pulmicort Flexhaler contains several strengths of budesonide:
- 90 mcg
- 180 mcg
Side Effects
The most common side effects of Pulmicort include:
- Nasopharyngitis
- Pharyngitis
- Nasal congestion
- Viral upper respiratory infection
- Oral candidiasis
Speak with your doctor for a full list of side effects that apply to you if you are taking Pulmicort.
Precautions
Pulmicort like other ICS can cause a localized fungal infection called thrush. It is important that following Flexhaler use that patients rinse their mouth with water.
Pulmicort is a long acting ICS, so it cannot be used to treat acute symptoms of asthma.
With all corticosteroids, there is a risk of adrenal suppression when using Pulmicort, so the medication should not be stopped unless recommended by a physician, and this risk is increased then taking oral steroids.
Interactions
The most common drug interactions with Pulmicort include:
- Ketoconazole
- Ritonavir
- Clarithromycin
- Phenytoin
- Carbamazepine
Speak with your doctor for more information and before starting a new medication with Pulmicort.
Storage
Store at room temperature (68-77ºF).
Pharmacist Tips
- Pulmicort is not a rescue inhaler, and it is not for use with acute symptoms.
- Patients should rinse their mouths with water following Pulmicort use.
- Pulmicort Flexhaler should be used daily to control asthma symptoms.
Budesonide FAQs
How many times a day can you use Pulmicort?
The typical recommended dose is to use the Flexhaler twice a day.
How do I know if my Pulmicort inhaler is working?
The flexhaler should have a dose indicator, it will move after administering 5 doses, when it reads 0 the canister is empty.
Is Pulmicort an anti-inflammatory?
Pulmicort is a corticosteroid which can reduce inflammation.
What are the side effects of Pulmicort?
The most common side effects with Pulmicort include sore throat, runny nose, nose bleeds, sneezing, and cough.
Is Pulmicort inhaler a steroid?
Yes, Pulmicort is an inhaled steroid.
Related Drugs
Reference:
Pulmicort Flexhaler {package insert}. Wilmington, DE: AstraZeneca LP; 2010.
https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2010/021949s006lbl.pdf
Author: Dr. Larisa Roybal, PharmD
Dr. Roybal is a board-certified pharmacotherapy specialist who has practiced in both ambulatory and acute care settings. Her pharmacy interests include oncology and general inpatient pharmacy.
The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.